United States Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, in original box with Ribbon and Bar, USA

Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal

Years of Service : 1958 onwards

Original Medal Set, with Pendant(medal), Service Ribbon, Clip and Bar in Original box dated 1995

The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Set was issued to all branches of the US Military for participation in any military action not covered by a specific war medal. Original Medal in box as issued. Box is dated 1995

The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal was authorized on  December 4, 196 to any member of the United States Armed Forces for US Military operations, US operations in direct support of the United Nations, and US operations of assistance to friendly foreign nations after July 1st, 1985. The medal is awarded to any major operation not already covered by a specific war medal. Participating personnel must have served at least 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days in the qualifying operation or less, if the operation lasted fewer than 30 days. The medal was also awarded to individuals who did not meet the basic criteria, but who's actions merit special recognition in the given operation.

The medal depicts an American Eagle with wings raised, perched on a sword. Behind the eagle is a compass rose, with a star. Each point of the star indicates a major point on the compass. The back depicts the  Presidential shield with sprigs of laurel. The ribbon have the American national colours of red, white and blue at the honour point or centre of the ribbon. This is surrounded with a wide light blue section, suggesting overseas operations. While the remaining four thinner stripes represent the rest of the world, where American soldiers might be called to serve in operations.